About pirfenidone
Antifibrotic agent
Used for
- Slows lung-function decline in adults with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Usual adult dose
801 mg three times daily with food; increase gradually over 14 days.
Common side effects
- Nausea, indigestion, or diarrhea
- Rash and sun sensitivity
- Tiredness
- Reduced appetite or weight loss
Important warnings
- Liver injury can occur; liver tests are needed before and during treatment.
- Sun exposure may cause severe skin reactions; use sun protection.
- Smoking can reduce medicine levels and effectiveness.
- Take with food; do not crush or chew tablets.
Pregnancy
Safety is unknown; use during pregnancy is generally avoided unless clearly needed.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether pirfenidone passes into breast milk; breastfeeding is generally not recommended during treatment.
Interactions
- Fluvoxamine can markedly increase pirfenidone levels.
- Ciprofloxacin may increase pirfenidone levels.
- Smoking lowers pirfenidone levels.
- Other medicines that affect liver enzymes may alter pirfenidone levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.